Fire safety of electric meters

Maintenance

The consumer units and electric meters for my property are located the common parts, which is the primary fire escape for my tentants. This hallway is shared with one other flat, whose electric meter and consumer unit are installed next to mine.

I have a quote to upgrade my cosumer unit to a modern (metal) one that meets electrical / fire safety standards, but there is also the matter of the electric meter. This is old, and I'll be discussing with my tenants to get it upgraded to a smart meter.

I'm unclear though whether upgrading all this equipment leaves me compliant with the fire safety order. The LACORS guidance states "It is considered best practice to enclose such equipment in fire-resisting construction". 

Does "best practice" mean it's required, or it's just recommended? Is the electricy board's equipment not fire proof? Can I place a metal cover around just the meter, or do I need to place a cabinet around the whole area?